Photo: TCR

Leonel Pernía to defend TCR South America title

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Leonel Pernía will defend his TCR South America title in 2026 after re-signing with the Honda YPF Racing team for the new campaign.

The 50-year-old beat former F1 racer Nelson Piquet Jr to the title this season after an impressive year that included six wins at the wheel of his Honda Civic Type R.

Pernía will race one of four Civics being entered by the team in 2026, with the Argentine racer once again teaming up with son Tiago.

The 21-year-old is set to be one of the youngest drivers on the grid and could yet dovetail his South American programme with some races in Europe if the opportunity arises.

Further information on the team’s remaining drivers will be made in due course.